Pump loses prime and fills with air shortly after starting; pump basket does not stay full of water.

Safety first: Turn off the pump before opening the lid or adjusting valves.

• Check water level: Maintain pool water level at least halfway up the skimmer opening to prevent vortexing and air ingestion.
• Seal lid and unions: Clean and lubricate the lid O-ring, and hand-tighten suction unions. Replace any visibly cracked fittings.
• Test with soapy water: With the pump running, carefully apply soapy water around suspected joints; bubbles being sucked in indicate an air leak.
• Correct suction configuration: Avoid running only the skimmer line if air issues persist; open main drain if available.